Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) Therapist Development Center Practice Exam

What should a therapist do if they suspect abuse is occurring in a long-term care facility based on a client's report?

1. Prioritize management's reporting requirements

2. Shift towards conducting an investigation

3. File a report with law enforcement and the local ombudsman

4. Address the client's concerns without taking action

The correct answer is: File a report with law enforcement and the local ombudsman

When a therapist suspects abuse occurring in a long-term care facility based on a client's report, the most appropriate and responsible action is to file a report with law enforcement and the local ombudsman. This is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, the safety and well-being of the client and potentially other residents in the facility must be prioritized. Reporting to law enforcement engages the appropriate authorities who are trained to handle such allegations and can investigate further to protect individuals from harm. The local ombudsman plays a key role in advocating for the rights of residents in long-term care facilities and can provide additional support and resources. While management's reporting requirements could be relevant in certain scenarios, simply reporting to management could lead to a conflict of interest or insufficient action, particularly if management has a stake in the facility's reputation or feels pressure to downplay the allegations. Conducting an investigation may not be appropriate for the therapist, who is not trained as an investigator and whose role is not to ascertain the facts but rather to ensure that proper protocols are followed to safeguard clients. Addressing the client's concerns without taking action would undermine the severity of the situation and could leave the client at continued risk of harm. It is imperative for therapists to act on such disclosures seriously and in accordance with